Former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Michael Aondoakaa, SAN, has raised serious concerns over the growing threat of hunger in Benue State following persistent bandit s that have displaced farmers and destroyed farmlands.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV on Thursday, Aondoakaa stressed that the crisis must be addressed without political considerations, warning that the consequences extend beyond insecurity to food scarcity. According to him, about 80 per cent of Benue State’s population are farmers, many of whom have been forced to abandon their farms due to escalating violence.
“This is a situation that politics should be completely set aside,” he said. “There’s a potential danger of hunger that is even more serious than the mayhem being caused by the bandits.”
Aondoakaa revealed that bandits are increasingly concentrating within the Benue Valley, particularly in Benue State and its environs. He cited Ukum Local Government Area as a flashpoint, noting that 10 out of its 13 wards are reportedly under bandit occupation. He added that insurgents have settled less than three kilometres from the main market in Ukum, a major hub for yam production in Nigeria, describing the situation as alarming.
Recalling security strategies adopted during the administration of former President Umaru Musa Yar’adua, Aondoakaa said the government operated a zero-tolerance policy against banditry, with the military swiftly moving in to flush out criminal elements wherever they were detected.
He called on the Federal Government to take decisive and practical action, including collaboration with international partners such as the United States, to tackle the menace. According to him, such cooperation does not undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty but strengthens national security, citing the recent Nigeria–U.S. collaboration in Sokoto State as an effective model.
Aondoakaa urged the government to replicate similar operations in Benue State, either through the Nigerian Air Force or with international support, to prevent further displacement, restore farming activities, and avert a looming food crisis.
I cant believe Aondoakaa is blaming bandit s for hunger in Benue! Its more complicated than that. What about government support?
I think the government needs to prioritize protecting farmers and addressing food security in Benue. Its a critical issue that cant be ignored.
I disagree with Aondoakaas warning. We should focus on solutions, not just predictions. Lets take action to support displaced farmers.
Do you think the government is doing enough to address the issue of bandit s displacing farmers in Benue? Its a serious concern!